Montgomery County graduate Alexa Groeber was named a national finalist for the environmental science and national resources agricultural proficiency award.

She was one of four FFA members nationwide that were selected as national finalists in the environmental science and national resources agricultural proficiency. She will be recognized at the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis at 6 p.m. on Oct. 31.

The other national finalists are Jacob Zuniga of St. Helena, Calif., Olivia Hogg of LaGrange, Ga., and Rylee Nelson of Waupaca, Wis.

Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Students compete in areas ranging from agricultural communications to wildlife management. Proficiency awards are also recognized at local and state levels and provide recognition to members exploring and becoming established in agricultural career pathways.

Groeber was the first MCHS FFA member since the 2000s to be selected as national finalist, when Kyle Carter was selected in swine production placement. Another MCHS FFA member who was a national finalist was Randy Rodgers in swine production in the 1970s.

Groeber graduated from MCHS in 2024 and currently attends the College of the Ozarks. Four months ago, Groeber won a state title in environmental science and natural resources management during state competition at the Missouri FFA Convention.

Groeber works for Graham Cave State Park in Danville as part of her supervised agricultural experience program. Her duties include caring for the restrooms, completing trail maintenance, picking up trash and developing a program that helped inform the public about the natural and cultural wonders of Graham Cave.